• The Programme comprises two key initiatives: the Entrepreneurship Recruitment Programme 2.0 for Rua das Estalagens and the newly introduced Shop Rebranding Programme.
• After a rigorous three-round evaluation process, 24 outstanding projects were selected this year.

In April this year, Sands China launched the new phase of the Sands China Community Revitalization Programme for Rua das Estalagens 2026. The programme includes two initiatives: the Entrepreneurship Recruitment Programme 2.0 for Rua das Estalagens and the newly introduced Shop Rebranding Programme. It successfully attracted an enthusiastic response from aspiring entrepreneurs and local merchants. After nearly six months of efforts, an award ceremony was held on September 23 at The Londoner Macao, where 24 outstanding enterprises were announced and recognized through the two initiatives.

Sands China has been a strong advocate of the Macao SAR government’s district revitalization strategy. In 2024, it launched the inaugural Entrepreneurship Recruitment Programme for Rua das Estalagens, which successfully introduced seven businesses to Rua das Estalagens. Over the past two years, the programme has achieved significant success by introducing new commercial vitality and enhancing the vibrancy of the street.

To continue preserving the historical and cultural legacy, the Sands China Community Revitalization Programme for Rua das Estalagens 2026 embraced the theme of “integrating the old with the new, bridging the past into the future.” This year’s programme builds upon the foundation of the 2024 initiative by launching the Entrepreneurship Recruitment Programme 2.0 for Rua das Estalagens. Additionally, the new Shop Rebranding Programme was introduced to support existing merchants in improving their business performance. This includes initiatives such as rebranding, shopfront refurbishment, new product or service development, and system upgrades.

The programme received 69 applications this year and nearly 200 across both editions. Following a rigorous three-round evaluation process, 24 enterprises were selected this year, including 11 entrepreneurship projects and 13 shop rebranding initiatives. These enterprises cover various fields, such as dine-in services, takeaways, retail, cultural and creative industries, fashion, travel photography, and pet grooming.

At the September 23 awards ceremony, the selected enterprises under the Sands China Community Revitalization Programme for Rua das Estalagens 2026 were honored for their innovative ideas and entrepreneurial passion, which collectively inject new vitality into the street’s development.

Dr Wilfred Wong, Executive Vice Chairman of Sands China Ltd., said: “We are pleased by the enthusiastic response the programme has received, attracting a diverse range of businesses. This not only reflects the public’s recognition of Sands China’s revitalization efforts on Rua das Estalagens, but also demonstrates the entrepreneurial spirit of a new generation eager to establish businesses in the district, alongside the determination of existing businesses to evolve and embrace new opportunities.

“To translate this enthusiasm into tangible outcomes for district development, Sands China will continue to leverage its corporate strengths, working hand in hand with stakeholders across the community to shape an even brighter future for Rua das Estalagens and contribute to Macao’s diversified economic development.”

To further exemplify its “large enterprises leading SMEs” approach, Sands China introduced a phased funding mechanism this year. Selected enterprises receive 60% of their total funding as initial capital before launching their new ventures or implementing shop rebranding plans. This approach reduces financial pressures during the start-up phase and allows businesses to focus on preparing and executing their projects smoothly.

In the process of district revitalization, Sands China aims not only to preserve the cultural heritage of Rua das Estalagens but also to create an environment where heritage and innovation coexist. Through continuous collaboration with the community, Sands China is committed to contributing to the sustainable development of the district.